Leadership Skill: The Power of Listening – Part 3

Effective leaders recognize the value of receiving feedback from various sources (e.g., their teams and clients). They seek to leverage the expertise and experiences of others to move the organization forward. They make it a point to listen to the right people at the right time.

Like a pilot flying a plane, effective leaders understand the importance of receiving regular feedback—if they are to reach their destination. They know that feedback helps secure their flight, making sure that they don’t go off course and that everything is operating correctly. Feedback provides them with valuable information so that they can course correct, and it allows them to deal with issues before those become insurmountable.

For instance, when feedback brings to light a blind spot—which makes a leader vulnerable—effective leaders see it as an opportunity to grow. And this is favorable for everyone affected by the leader.

Effective leaders aren’t afraid of or intimidate by feedback. They don’t passively wait for feedback; they proactively seek it. To that end, they put in place mechanisms by which they can get feedback. In the context of an organization, this may take various forms:

As a leader, you must take the time to reflect on the best ways to receive the feedback they need from the multiple sources. As such, receiving regular feedback from the various stakeholders should become a priority and part of your team’s and organization’s fiber.

What systems do you need to put in place to receive regular feedback from the various stakeholders you have to deal with?

Your goal in receiving feedback is to gather the information you need to make the best decisions possible and lead better.